Gaurav Kataria outlines AI’s role in operational excellence at PS26

Gaurav Kataria, vice-president, digital (manufacturing) and CDIO, paperboard and speciality paper division at ITC, highlighted the landscape of the print and packaging industry, which is undergoing a shift toward data-driven decision-making. 

At Print Summit 2026, Kataria detailed how digital transformation is no longer a futuristic concept but a practical tool for immediate efficiency. He emphasised that the same principles of predictive analytics used to solve complex aerospace issues — such as identifying the root cause of engine fumes through correlation analysis — are now being applied to the press room to anticipate mechanical failures before they occur.

Drawing parallels across various sectors, Kataria noted that the speed of innovation has reached unprecedented levels. He cited the rapid development of vaccines and the use of digital twins in the military as evidence of how digital tools can manage high-stakes environments. In the creative realm, the transition from manual storyboarding to AI-generated campaigns has enabled brands to localise content across diverse demographics with high speed and flexibility. 

This ability to pivot quickly is a cornerstone of what Kataria defines as being "customer-obsessed and business-responsible.”

For the print and packaging sector specifically, the integration of AI is manifesting in five core areas: demand forecasting, workflow automation, generative design, quality inspection, and sustainability. He explained that bringing data into the press room allows for leaner inventory and more accurate sizing, while machine vision inspection ensures that defects in premium finishes are identified instantly. By automating bottlenecks and using predictive alerts for hardware like jetheads or rollers, manufacturers can protect both their production schedules and their profit margins.

The impact of these technologies is already visible in global case studies. Kataria highlighted how companies in Denmark and the United States have utilised vision-based AI and predictive ERP systems to cut scrap rates and reduce overtime by up to 20%. Similarly, AI-driven colour optimisation has halved turnaround times for high-volume campaigns in some instances in Brazil. 

These examples serve as a roadmap for local players to start with small, measurable pilots. By focusing on one process at a time, businesses can scale their digital capabilities to achieve faster cycles and a more sustainable footprint without sacrificing quality.